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Up Next Powered by Field of Dreams LI: Aayden Marquez

Editor’s Note: This is the third installment of the ‘Up Next’ series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Zachary Cook-Rosario and Rock Babinsky. Special thanks to Field of Dreams LI for sponsoring this year’s series. Check them out here

One of the top performing travel teams from Long Island over the past couple years has been Dodgers Nation Select Byrnes. They were named the 2024 Axcess 12u Team of the Year and they followed that up with a 13u Axcess Team of the Year in 2025.

Among their many standout players is Aayden Marquez. He is currently a sophomore at East Meadow HS where he played on varsity as a freshman. The super athletic RHP/OF posted the following stats during the 2026 summer season over 54 games.

.377 AVG, .515 OBP, 1.015 OPS, 48 R, 29 RBIs, 49-54 SB

His coach, Christian Byrnes, had the following to say:

“It is an honor for me to speak about this young man. I saw him play when he was 11-years-old and knew he was special. I’ve had the privilege to coach him for four years. I got to teach him and watch him become a human highlight reel blending speed and power playing 14u-16u age range and excelling at all levels. His future is bright. It’s been an honor to see him become the player he has. His ability to take instruction and baseball IQ is one of the best I’ve seen. ‘I got you, coach’ is his favorite thing to say to me. One thing that he has always fulfilled, there is nothing on a field he can’t do. Anyone who has played against my team will tell you the same. He has traveled to Georgia, Florida, Texas and all Tri-state PGs – winning both pitcher and player award. He makes everyone around him a better person on-and-off the field. Congratulations Aayden, just keep smiling.”

I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…

Was baseball always your No. 1 sport? Do you play any other sports?

No, at first when I was a baby I always had a basketball in my hand and then when I was 7-years-old, my dad put me on a baseball field and I fell in love with the sport.

Who are some people who have had a positive impact on your career?

My parents, my family and my coaches. They have all been there for me and always made anything happen and they made me the player I am today.

What was it like playing varsity as a freshman?

It was a great experience playing with all these upperclassmen and learning from them.

How have you enjoyed your time on Dodgers Nation?

I’ve enjoyed it a lot. I’ve been with them since I was 11-years-old and Coach Christian, Coach Charlie and Coach Brendan have made me into a great player and help me develop so much and I appreciate them a lot and the organization.

Who are your favorite professional athletes?

My favorite professional athlete is Francisco Lindor because he is an elite shortstop and he brings good energy and he is a great leader and he is definitely someone I would look up to.

What has been your most thrilling moment on a baseball field?

The most thrilling moment I’ve had on a baseball field was in 13u and we were playing the Dream Chasers we were down by two, bases loaded and I hit a grand slam to put us up and then we won the game. That is a moment I’ll never forget.

Goals for 2027?

To work hard in the offseason and have a great season.

Favorite app on your phone?

My favorite app is YouTube because I watch a lot of highlights and learn from all the guys who are professional and helps me with my game.

Favorite musical artist?

Drake

Favorite restaurant on Long Island?

Texas Roadhouse

Favorite TV show or movie?

All-American

Best baseball trip you’ve been on?

The best baseball trip I’ve ever been on was Myrtle Beach when I had just turned 12 years old.

What is your favorite vacation spot?

My favorite vacation spot is Florida because I get to visit my father.

Dream Car?

BMW M4